Messi's Record Night – One More Goal to Rewrite History

This match carries special personal significance for Messi. He has already scored 19 goals in the World Cup, sitting alone atop the all-time scoring list. Moreover, he has become the first player in history to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches.

At 38 years old, Messi has found the net in all three group stage matches, tallying six goals in total. In the first round against Algeria, he scored a hat trick; in the second match against Austria, he missed a penalty but still scored twice; and in the final group game against Jordan, he came off the bench to slot home a free kick. Three matches, three different ways of scoring—open play, penalty, and free kick. Messi's arsenal remains fully stocked.

Facing Cape Verde, Messi will certainly have plenty of scoring opportunities. Although Cape Verde's defense is tenacious, their 40-year-old goalkeeper Wozniak is up against the World Cup's all-time leading scorer. Cape Verde conceded only two goals in the group stage, but the attacking firepower of Spain and Uruguay, whom they faced, is not on par with Argentina's. Argentina scored eight goals in the group stage, boasting one of the top attacking forces in this tournament.

According to Argentine media analysis, Messi is highly likely to start this match. If he scores in this game, he will further extend his own World Cup scoring record. Against Cape Verde's resilient but not impenetrable defense, the probability of Messi finding the net is extremely high. The record is within reach, and Messi has no reason not to give his all in this match.

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